New Executives Join Mary Bridge, Tacoma General

Jeff Poltawsky is now the president and market leader for Mary Bridge hospital and health network, while Sharon Oxendale has been named president and CEO of the latter two hospitals, which she led in an interim capacity since December, according to news releases.

Jeff Poltawsky. Courtesy MultiCare.

Poltawsky, whose appointment was effective Monday, joined MultiCare from the University of Wisconsin, where he led American Family Children’s Hospital and was senior vice president of the university’s health system. In his 10 years there, he oversaw a $16 million capital campaign to enlarge inpatient capacity at the hospital, according to a release.

In parallel, he grew the hospital into a full-service facility that has garnered national recognition. He led the development of surgical services, a neonatal intensive care unit, regional outreach clinics and other initiatives, the release said. He previously held leadership positions at pediatric hospitals in Indianapolis and Atlanta.

“Jeff possesses a positive, approachable style that will be a great match for Mary Bridge and MultiCare,” said Florence Chang, MultiCare’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. “His vision for Mary Bridge is to solidify it as one of the best and safest children’s hospitals in the nation.”

Oxendale, meanwhile, moves from interim president and chief operating officer to the permanent chief executive. She has led hospitals and health services for more than two decades across the country, according to a release.

Sharon Oxendale. Courtesy MultiCare.

Beyond her leadership work, she serves as a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and is active in United Way and Chamber of Commerce programs.

“We’re thrilled to have Sharon join MultiCare,” said Tim Bricker, MultiCare’s senior vice president and chief executive for the South Sound. “During her six months as interim president, she has helped stabilize the leadership team and driven notable improvements in patient experience, safety, and financial performance.”